CUPE’s Skilled Trades Summit concluded this Sunday afternoon after a weekend of discussions and planning among tradespeople in the public sector. Over 140 mechanics, carpenters, electricians, welders, millwrights, heavy equipment operators, and other skilled workers gathered to address pressing issues in their fields and strategize on improving working conditions.
CUPE National President Mark Hancock spoke to attendees on Friday evening, emphasizing the vital—but often overlooked—role that public sector tradespeople play in keeping our communities running. On Saturday, CUPE was honoured to welcome New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt as a guest speaker. In her address to workers, she spoke about getting rid of Bill 17, which unjustly stifled free collective bargaining and the importance of positive collaboration between labour and government. She also highlighted how she wants to see her government take more steps to improve labour relations in New Brunswick.
“In a time of uncertainty, with U.S. tariffs now imposed across Canada, it is more important than ever for government representatives to engage directly with frontline workers,” said Mark Hancock. “We’re pleased to see Premier Holt take the time to meet with workers and reaffirm her commitment to being part of the solution—working together to build a better New Brunswick for all.”
Following Premier Holt’s address, she met with CUPE leaders, including Mark Hancock, CUPE New Brunswick President Stephen Drost, and CUPE Maritimes Regional Director Sandy Harding, for a productive discussion about the challenges facing skilled trades workers. That very same morning, the Minister for Intergovernmental Affairs and Acting Minister of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour, Jean-Claude D’Amours, also addressed attendees.
The CUPE Skilled Trades Summit highlighted the need for fair wages and improved working conditions for public sector tradespeople. “Skilled trades workers play a major role in New Brunswick and the backbone of our public services. For many years, their voices went unheard by previous governments. That’s why I am calling on all tradespeople to step up and get involved in their respective local. By working together, we can make a real difference. We can lead the charge for fairness and respect, bring new apprentices in, and retain our amazing, experienced workers.” concluded Drost.